The Social Security System (SSS) number is a lifetime, non-transferable identification number issued to every registered member under Republic Act No. 11199 (Social Security Act of 2018). It is the primary identifier for all SSS transactions—contributions, loans, benefits, maternity notifications, sickness reimbursements, retirement, disability, and death claims. Losing access to your SSS number or never having received a physical copy does not extinguish your membership or rights; the number remains permanently assigned to you in the SSS masterfile.
This article exhaustively covers every lawful method available as of November 30, 2025 to retrieve a forgotten SSS number or obtain a verifiable online/digital copy acceptable for employment, bank enrollment, loan applications, and government transactions.
I. Legal Nature of the SSS Number and Proof Thereof
Under SSS Circular No. 2021-010 and related issuances, the following are recognized as valid proof of SSS number/membership:
- Physical SSS ID (old blue card) or UMID card
- Printed Static Information from My.SSS (most widely accepted online proof)
- Digitized/Temporary SS Number Slip generated upon online registration
- Certification issued by an SSS branch
- Printout of Payment Reference Number (PRN) statements showing the SS number
- Employer-certified copy of the R-1/R-3 form
The printed Static Information from the My.SSS portal is explicitly recognized by most employers, banks (for payroll or loan purposes), and even other government agencies (GSIS, Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth) as sufficient proof of SSS membership/number.
II. Fastest and Most Practical Method: Retrieve via My.SSS Portal Using Your CRN (UMID Card)
This is the only true 100% online retrieval method that works even if you have completely forgotten your 10-digit SSS number.
Requirements:
- You must have been issued a UMID card (or the newer SSS UMID-ATM card) at any point in your membership.
Steps (takes 3–10 minutes):
- Go to https://www.sss.gov.ph
- Click “Member Login” → “Not yet registered in My.SSS?”
- Choose registration type: “CRN (for UMID cardholders)”
- Enter your 12-digit CRN (found on the front of your UMID card)
- Fill in personal details (complete name, date of birth, etc.) for validation
- Create your User ID and Password
- After successful registration, log in
- Your 10-digit SSS number is prominently displayed on the dashboard and under “Member Info” → “Static Information”
- Click “Static Information” → Print or save as PDF. This document contains your photo (if uploaded), full name, date of birth, SSS number, and membership status. It is date-stamped and considered an official online copy.
This method works for 95%+ of members who have ever applied for and received a UMID card (mandatory since 2011 for most active members).
III. Alternative Online Retrieval Methods When You Have No UMID Card
A. You Still Remember Your SSS Number but Have No Physical Copy
- Register/log in to My.SSS using your SSS number (choose “SS Number” during registration)
- Once inside, immediately print your Static Information – this is your official online copy.
B. You Have an Existing My.SSS Account but Forgot the Password
Use the “Forgot Password” feature. SSS will send a reset link or temporary password to your registered mobile number or email. After resetting, your SSS number appears on the dashboard.
C. You Enrolled a Bank Account for Salary/Cal calamity Loan or Pension Disbursement
During registration in My.SSS, choose “Bank Enrollment” option (if your bank account is already enrolled with SSS via your employer or personal application). The system will validate using your bank details and reveal your SSS number upon successful registration.
IV. Online Application for Brand-New SSS Number (Instant Slip Generation)
For individuals who have never been registered (voluntary members, self-employed, OFWs, non-working spouses, new graduates):
- Visit https://www.sss.gov.ph
- Click “Apply for an SS Number Online” or go directly to https://www.sss.gov.ph/sss/appmanager/pages.jsp?page=memberregistration
- Fill out the online form completely and accurately
- Upon submission, your SSS number is instantly generated and displayed on screen
- You will receive the number via your registered email
- A downloadable PDF “SS Number Slip” is automatically generated. This PDF contains your name, SSS number, CRN, QR code, and is considered your official temporary ID until you apply for the UMID card.
- Print multiple copies; this slip is accepted by employers and banks as proof of registration.
This process has been fully online since 2016 and remains the fastest way (under 5 minutes) to obtain both the number and a verifiable digital copy.
V. Retrieval via SSS Hotline (Phone Verification)
Call the SSS PRN Helpline:
Metro Manila: (02) 8920-6401 | (02) 8920-6446 to 55
Provinces: 1-800-10-2255-777 (PLDT toll-free)
Mobile: 0917-854-SSSS (0917-854-7777) Globe/TM
Prepare the following information for verification:
- Complete name
- Exact date of birth
- Mother’s complete maiden name
- Complete permanent address
- Name of first/last employer (if any)
After verification, the agent will dictate your 10-digit SSS number. You may request that they also send a confirmation via your registered mobile number or email. This method is free and available 24/7 via automated IVR for basic inquiries.
VI. Retrieval via Email Request
Send email to any of the following official addresses:
Subject: “Request for SSS Number Retrieval – [Your Full Name]”
Body must contain:
- Full name
- Date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Mother’s maiden name
- Mobile number
- Scanned copy of two (2) valid government IDs
SSS typically replies within 1–3 banking days with your SSS number and sometimes attaches a temporary digital slip.
VII. Personal Appearance at SSS Branch (Most Secure, Guaranteed Method)
This is the method SSS officially recommends when all online options fail.
Requirements:
- At least two (2) valid primary IDs or one primary + two secondary IDs
- Accomplished E-4 (Member Data Change Request) form only if there are discrepancies; otherwise, simple inquiry is enough
- No fee for SSS number inquiry/reprinting
Process:
- Book an online appointment (recommended) via https://crms.sss.gov.ph/ (choose “Member Inquiry – SS Number”)
- Proceed to the SSS branch on your scheduled date
- Approach the Information Desk or Member Services Section
- State that you are requesting “retrieval of forgotten SSS number” or “printout of Static Information/certification of membership”
- After biometric verification (fingerprint scan), the teller will print your record on the spot. You will receive:
- Printed Static Information (with SSS seal in some branches)
- Or an official Certification bearing your SSS number
This printout is the most formally accepted document for all purposes.
VIII. Special Cases
A. Deceased Member’s SSS Number (for survivors’ benefits)
Legal heirs must present death certificate + proof of relationship at the branch. SSS number will be provided immediately.
B. Members Abroad (OFWs)
Use the SSS Foreign Representative Offices or email ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph with notarized/authenticated IDs.
C. Minors (below 18)
Parent/guardian must accompany with PSA birth certificate.
IX. What Is NOT Allowed / Common Myths
- SSS will NEVER send your SSS number via ordinary SMS for security reasons.
- There is no legitimate third-party website or app that can retrieve your SSS number.
- Paying any person or online service to “recover” your number is unnecessary and likely a scam.
Conclusion
The easiest and fastest way for the overwhelming majority of members is Method II (using your UMID CRN to register in My.SSS and print Static Information). For new registrants, the online application provides an instant digital slip. Only when all identifiers are completely lost should you resort to branch visit or hotline/email verification.
Having a digital copy (Static Information PDF) saved on your phone and cloud storage is now considered best practice by the SSS itself. Keep it secure—your SSS number is as sensitive as your Tax Identification Number.